In January 1774, the Spanish ship Santiago sailed from the port of San Blas towards the north of the Pacific Ocean. Their objective: to reach 60 degrees latitude to discover possible Russian settlements, take possession in the name of the Crown of new lands and establish friendly relations with any natives found.

In August and already back due to the lack of provisions, an island is sighted for the first time by some Europeans. The ship anchors in the bay they call San Lorenzo de Nutca.

The expedition returns to San Blas eleven months after its departure with one less man on board, who mysteriously disappeared during the outward journey on a stormy night...